UPDATE: Two heroic Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies saved two paragliders who crashed into the ocean off the coast of Malibu, California, amid dense fog. The dramatic rescue unfolded at approximately 12:30 p.m. on Friday, when the pair became disoriented and plunged into the water near Carbon Beach.
The paragliders had initially taken off in clear skies but quickly found themselves in thick fog, leading to their perilous situation. As they struggled in the water, the weight of their gear pulled them down, and tangled cords wrapped around their feet, making their situation even more critical.
Deputies Christopher Matkin and Sevak Grigoryan responded swiftly to the emergency call, racing into the ocean as soon as they arrived on the scene. “When we first got there, the fog was very dense. We could only make out the outline of the parachute,” Deputy Matkin recounted. The urgency was palpable as they navigated through the fog to locate the victims.
Body camera footage reveals the deputies dropping their gear and sprinting into the surf, showcasing their commitment to saving lives. Upon reaching the paragliders, Matkin and Grigoryan used their knives to cut the cords binding the victims. “It was a tense situation because both of the victims were pulling down on everyone and dragging us under,” Matkin explained.
The deputies managed to calm the distressed paragliders, successfully pulling them to safety without any injuries. “It definitely could have gone south,” Grigoryan stated, reflecting on the potentially tragic outcome. The victims expressed their gratitude, thanking the deputies for their swift and brave actions.
Once rescued, the paragliders received on-site medical attention and were later released. The quick response from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department highlights the critical role of first responders in life-threatening situations.
As the fog lifted, the deputies shared their relief at the successful resolution of the incident. This heroic rescue serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by sudden weather changes and the importance of safety measures when engaging in outdoor activities.
Stay tuned for more updates as authorities continue to assess the situation and ensure the safety of all outdoor adventurers in the area. The bravery displayed by Matkin and Grigoryan underscores the risks first responders take daily to protect the community.
